Charles de Gaulle Memorabilia Auction Raises €5.6 Million, Sets Record for LIP Watch

The auction of 372 personal items from the French leader's estate included historic manuscripts, letters, and a record-breaking watch, with proceeds benefiting cultural institutions and charity.

The auction, held in Paris by Artcurial, featured 372 items from Charles de Gaulle's estate, generating €5.6 million in total sales.
A LIP watch worn by de Gaulle in the 1960s sold for €537,920, setting a global record for the brand.
The French government preemptively acquired 140 lots for national collections, with key pieces going to institutions like the National Archives and the French National Library.
Highlights included a letter from Winston Churchill (€107,584), an original edition of 'Mémoires de Guerre' (€76,458), and a letter from Joséphine Baker (€26,240).
A portion of the proceeds will support the Anne de Gaulle Foundation, which aids individuals with disabilities, honoring the legacy of de Gaulle's family.